by Red Phoenix
“Of course.”
“Very well…the creature has been caught spying on the Reverend Mother and masturbating.”
Sir groaned. “Does her depravity know no depths?”
“Dr. Volkov believes it is a form of Stockholm Syndrome. Because the Reverend Mother runs the convent where she is being held and oversees her care, the creature has bonded with her.”
“Is this the reason the Reverend Mother is stepping down from her position?”
“I believe so, although she refuses to admit it. She tells me that she believes the creature is no longer progressing, and she blames herself for the failure.”
“She is not at fault,” Sir stated with disgust.
“I agree, comrade. However, I have not been able to convince the Reverend Mother of that.”
“What did Dr. Volkov have to say?” Brie asked.
“After a thorough psychological examination, he’s concluded that the creature suffers from a delusional disorder and will continue to need twenty-four-seven care during treatment.”
“So, he believes she can be treated?” Sir asked, stunned.
Rytsar hesitated when he answered. “He believes with proper medical treatment and psychotherapy, she may recover. However, her delusional disorder is highly resistant to medication alone. People with severe symptoms must be hospitalized to prevent them from hurting others until the condition can be stabilized.”
“Does he have any idea how long that will take?”
“No, moy droog. He told me he has never encountered a case as severe as hers.”
Goosebumps rose on Brie’s skin. To hear from a medical doctor that Lilly was mentally psychotic and a danger to others cemented her greatest fears.
Sir growled. “I don’t like this. No hospital is secure enough to hold her.”
“I agree,” Brie cried. “Lilly would escape at the first opportunity.”
“I concur,” Rytsar stated.
“But you did say she is no longer obsessed with Sir. That is a positive step, right?” Brie asked, needing something to hold onto.
“Not necessarily,” Rytsar answered.
Sir furrowed his brow. “Why is that?”
“She wants to make you pay for abandoning her child.”
“God, will this insanity ever end?” he snarled.
“It could,” Rytsar replied. “Just say the word.”
Brie’s heart began to race. She understood his offer. It was frightening to know that with one word, they could end Lilly’s life and move on as if it never happened. It would be so simple and yet so monstrous.
She stared at the phone after the call ended. She had hoped for better news and was struggling with what they had just learned.
Sir broke the unnerving silence. “Excuse me. I need to make a phone call.”
He left the room abruptly, heading into his office.
Brie looked at Hope, innocently playing in her bouncer. Whatever decision they made would ultimately boil down to keeping Hope and their new child safe. The question was—would they be able to live with it?
When Sir came out of his office an hour later, he informed her, “The meeting you and I discussed was set for Friday, but I’ve rescheduled it for tonight. Can you be ready by seven?”
“Absolutely, Sir.”
“Good.” He looked down at the floor with a pained expression.
Brie understood he was anxious about confronting his past with Lilly, but she knew it was vital he face it now after hearing the recent news.
Smiling at him encouragingly, she asked, “Should I call the Reynolds to pick up Hope?”
“No. Bring her with you.”
She nodded.
The fact that Hope was coming convinced Brie that Sir was meeting with a mutual friend. Originally, she had assumed he would go to Rytsar because they were close like brothers. However, it now seemed Brie was mistaken, leaving her wondering who he had chosen to speak with.
As if he could read her mind, Sir told her, “While I speak with Gray, you can spend time visiting with Celestia.”
“That’s a wonderful idea, Sir!”
Discussing this with Gray made sense. The two men greatly respected each other, and Marquis had been able to help Sir in the past. It was not only his intuitive powers but the healing aspect of his skills with the flogger that made him an excellent choice.
Yet, Brie was still surprised.
Sir had kept the dark and sordid nature of his relationship with Lilly private from everyone but a few of his closest friends. Revealing something of this magnitude to Marquis Gray was exceedingly courageous on his part.
Brie could feel the tension in the car as they drove to their home. She placed her hand on Sir’s thigh and felt him instantly relax.
“I’m grateful you are here,” he told her.
“There is no other place I would rather be, Sir.”
Marquis Gray and Celestia greeted them at the door when they arrived. The instant Celestia saw Hope, she smiled and held out her hands to the baby. “My, aren’t you growing up fast!”
Even though Celestia was nearly a stranger to Hope, she responded to the woman’s loving nature and reached out her little hands for her.
“I’m impressed,” Sir stated. “Hope is a gregarious child, but it normally takes her a bit to warm up to new people.”
“She and I have an understanding,” Celestia laughed lightly. Hope started babbling at Celestia as if she could understand every word.
“You must,” Brie agreed, tickled by their instant connection.
Marquis spoke to Sir in a somber tone. “Due to the seriousness of your visit, may I suggest we go to my office straight away?”
Sir glanced at Brie before nodding to him. “Let’s.”
Brie was struck once again by Marquis Gray’s intimidating nature as she watched them walk down the hall. His uncanny ability to get straight to the heart of an issue made him both a strong ally and a man to be feared.
“While our men talk, why don’t we go into the living room?” Celestia suggested. “I’ve set out treats for you both.”
Brie blushed. “You didn’t need to go to any trouble.”
Celestia graced her with a beautiful smile. “It was my pleasure, Brie. I always enjoy spending time with you, and having Hope here is an added gift.”
“You are much too kind,” Brie told her when she saw the plethora of homemade refreshments and the bowl of pickles thoughtfully cut up in tiny pieces for Hope.
“When Marquis informed me that Sir Davis had switched the meeting to today, I was so excited.” She glanced down the hallway toward his office. “Although I understand this isn’t a social call.”
“Well, it is for us.” Brie sat down on the floor next to the coffee table. Hope went straight for the pickles the moment Celestia set her down.
They chatted for a couple of minutes before Brie heard Sir’s raised voice. She let out a nervous sigh.
“Don’t worry, Brie. They’ll be fine,” Celestia assured her.
She nodded, popping a small candy into her mouth and chewing on it slowly, trying desperately not to worry.
A short time later, they heard both men raising their voices at each other.
Even Celestia looked concerned as she broke up a cookie for Hope.
As the yelling continued, the two women glanced at each other, smiling nervously. Both went for the plate of chocolate at the same time.
Suddenly, Sir burst out of the office with Marquis Gray following close behind him. Sir turned to face him and shouted, “You are infuriating!”
Marquis Gray narrowed his eyes. “Well, I’ve certainly been called worse.”
“Good God, man!” Sir snarled. “I came here tonight looking for help, and you refuse to give it.”
“What you came for was someone to agree with you,” Marquis stated calmly, his eyes boring into Sir. “I am not that man and you know it. Therefore, you must ask yourself why you came to me when you knew my stance on the matter.”
Sir glared at him. “I thought you were a friend.”
Meeting his hostile gaze, Marquis Gray answered, “I am.”
“Well, it fucking doesn’t feel like it!”
Turning to Brie, Sir barked, “Get your things. We’re leaving.”
He swept Hope into his arms and waited impatiently for Brie.
Giving Celestia a worried glance, Brie quickly grabbed her purse and the diaper bag.
Sir took a moment to collect himself and then nodded to Celestia. “Thank you for your hospitality.”
He placed his hand against Brie’s back and briskly walked her toward the door.
“I will be here if you need me,” Marquis Gray called out.
“Fuck you, Gray!” Sir yelled, slamming the door behind them.
Brie got into the car without saying a word. Sir shut the passenger door with considerable force once she was in, before strapping Hope into her car seat.
She had no idea why things had gone so badly between the two men and sat in silence, feeling numb.
Sir got into the car without saying a word and revved the engine before taking off.
Tears pricked Brie’s eyes. She could sense the immense pain Sir was suffering after the unexpected confrontation.
Instead of gaining a sense of peace and a new perspective on Lilly, it appeared Sir’s meeting with Marquis had only made things considerably worse. That was evident by the tightness of his clenched jaw and the death grip he had on the steering wheel on the entire drive home.
Brie was reminded of another car ride after Sir left Marquis Gray’s place in a similar state. Marquis had confronted him about his care of Brie after learning Sir had been cold and distant with her. At the time, Sir had retreated into a dark place mentally and it almost destroyed him.
The heated words exchanged between the two men that night had left Sir furious and defensive afterward. Brie shuddered, remembering that awful car ride home and how worried she’d been about Sir—and the stability of their relationship.
But, the difference between then and now was like night and day.
Over time, Brie had come to understand that if she was patient and gave Sir space, he would calm down enough to tell her what had happened. She knew the only thing he needed from her at this moment was to quietly support him while he processed through it. There was no reason for her to fear.
That was the power of experience.
Understanding Sir on a much deeper level now, the insecurities she once harbored had no place in their relationship. As for Sir, he’d also wrestled through his fears of not being a suitable partner because of his inner demons. He’d eventually come to understand her need for him to be open with her and vowed to always honor it.
Brie glanced back at Hope with a sense of confidence, giving their daughter a reassuring smile.
They were condors.
There was nothing that could shake their foundation—no matter how great the force might be against them.
Toying with Her
After Sir’s failed meeting with Marquis, Brie was even more anxious for Rytsar’s return. Sir had remained silent about that night, but he was not acting distant with her or the baby.
Brie took that as a positive sign.
When Mary called, she was grateful for the distraction. “I’ve got some exciting news for you, Stinky Cheese.”
“That’s wonderful. What is it?”
“Come meet me at the coffee shop.”
“Aww, come on. Don’t leave me hanging like that, Mary.”
“Sorry, Stinks. I’m not saying anything until I see you in person.”
“Can’t you give me a hint?”
“Fine, but only one. It has something to do with your first documentary.”
Brie chuckled. “Well, that’s the last thing I expected you to say.”
“I know. It’s pretty unprecedented. Don’t take too long, bitch. I’m headed to the cafe now.” Mary ended the call, leaving Brie hanging on the line.
She headed to Sir’s office and knocked on the doorframe. The instant he looked up, his eyes softened. “What do you need, babygirl?”
“Mary just asked me to meet her at the coffee shop. She says she has something exciting to share about my first documentary, but I won’t go if I’m needed here.”
He encouraged her to meet with Mary. “Even if Miss Wilson’s news amounts to nothing, it’s obvious she needs you.”
Brie stood there, admiring Sir.
“What?” he asked with an amused smile.
“You never stopped looking out for her.”
“She not only was my charge once as the Headmaster of the Training Center, but she proved instrumental in protecting you from Lilly. She has earned my undying loyalty,” he stated. “Go to her while I look after Hope. I suspect there may be something more to this invitation.”
Brie walked over to hug him. “I’m extremely fortunate to be collared by such a man.”
He chuckled sadly. “Not all fortune is good, my dear.”
Brie knew he still held himself responsible for Lilly’s actions even though he was not to blame. She hoped that Rytsar would help him gain a better perspective since his meeting with Marquis Gray had failed to do so.
Brie blew her daughter a kiss before walking out the door. She hoped Mary’s news would give them all something small to celebrate.
Mary motioned her to the table at the café. The first thing Brie noticed was that Mary was wearing a pair of oversized sunglasses.
Brie found it odd and a little concerning.
As soon as Brie sat down, Mary pushed a cup of coffee to her. “You keep pissing off Greg, I’ll have you know.”
Brie frowned, now worried for her. “I haven’t done anything.”
“Well, whoever is backing you sure has.”
Brie leaned in closer. “What’s happened?”
“It appears your first documentary has suddenly gained critical acclaim and the word on the street has it that it’ll be up for an award.”
Brie sat back in her chair, shaking her head. “You’re playing me.”
Mary scoffed. “Like I would waste my time with that shit. I’m serious. Your documentary is being seriously considered for some honorary award for Most Compelling Living Subjects of a Documentary.”
Brie smiled. “That’s an award I’ll gladly accept.”
“You don’t understand, Brie. Your film has been out for a while. This kind of thing doesn’t happen.”
Brie crinkled her brows. “Why do you think it is happening now?”
A sly smile spread across Mary’s face. “I think whoever your secret admirer is wants to drum up attention for your first film.”
“Why?”
“I’m sure it’s to give the second documentary credentials when it’s released. But I’m telling you, Brie, this move has Greg on a rampage.”
Brie stared at Mary with concern. “Is that the reason for the sunglasses?”
She growled, “What are you implying?”
Knowing she needed to tread lightly, Brie told her, “It just seems a little odd that you’re wearing sunglasses inside the café, that’s all.”
Mary frowned and whipped her shades off. “I already told you. Greg would never damage the merchandise, if that’s what you’re getting at, bitch.”
Brie was relieved to not see any bruises on Mary’s beautiful face, but she didn’t miss the dark circles under her eyes, which Mary had tried unsuccessfully to cover up with makeup.
Worried for her friend, she asked, “How are things going with him?”
Mary glanced around the café before leaning in close, her voice venomous. “I don’t want to talk about it.”
Brie nodded meekly. She picked up her mug and took a sip of her latte.
“Anyway,” Mary continued, “even though this is a casual event among peers in the industry, I would still suggest dressing up for it.”
Brie shook her head. “What event?”
“The one where you rece
ive the award, idiot.”
“You mean there’s actually going to be an awards ceremony?”
“Nothing formal, but yeah. You will be recognized for the achievement during the event in front of everyone in attendance. I can’t stress enough how important that is for you right now.”
“Who else is going to be there?”
Mary rattled off several familiar names, including Finn. That was reason enough for Brie to attend, but she was still hesitant. “Is Holloway going to be there too?”
“No, he considers events like these beneath him.”
“Good,” Brie sighed in relief.
Mary grabbed her hand, squeezing it hard. “Don’t be afraid to meet Greg face to face. He may be a powerhouse in Hollywood, but he has nothing on you. Don’t you ever let him make you feel small.”
Brie realized she needed to hear that and smiled gratefully at Mary.
Mary let go of her hand and asked smugly, “You plan to be there, right?”
Brie took another sip of her latte, then set it down before answering. “Only if you promise to go with me.”
“I wouldn’t miss it, Stinks.”
“I guess I better ask when it is,” Brie laughed.
“The event isn’t for another month. Make sure your calendar is free. This move won’t have near the same impact if you aren’t there to receive the award in front of all those fuckers sucking up to Greg.”
“I’m sure whoever is championing my film will be there, don’t you think?”
Mary huffed. “I’d be surprised if they were. Although this event is too pedestrian for Greg, he’ll have his minions on the hunt. He’s determined to annihilate the enemy by any means necessary.” She paused, adding, “I guess I can’t blame him…”
Brie frowned. “Why would you say that?”
“If your secret admirer succeeds, Greg will be done in this town. He’s put his entire reputation on the line and there will be no coming back from this.” Mary’s eyes flashed with the need for revenge. “I’m praying for that day.”
“I can’t wait! No one should hold that kind of power over people.”
Mary let out a worried sigh. “That’s something that’s got me a little concerned.”
“Why?”
“Whoever this secret admirer is, he or she has that kind of power, Stinks. I wouldn’t trust whoever it is if I were you.”
